The Jamaica Observer has issued a formal apology for incorrectly attributing a statement about Fesco’s market position to Mr. Jeremy Barnes, the company’s CEO, in a recent BusinessWeek article titled ‘Fesco Fuel Sales Surge 7.4%’. The publication acknowledged that Mr. Barnes did not make the quoted remark and expressed regret for the error and any resulting confusion among its readers. As part of its corrective measures, the Observer has removed the misattributed quote from all its published materials. This incident highlights the importance of accurate reporting and the potential consequences of misinformation in business journalism. The Observer has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding journalistic integrity and ensuring the reliability of its content moving forward.
分类： business
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Antigua Prepares for Busy Cruise Season With Hundreds of Calls Scheduled
Antigua and Barbuda is poised for an exceptionally vibrant 2025–2026 cruise season, with a staggering 540 ship calls scheduled between October 2025 and April 2026, as revealed in the latest calendar update from Antigua Cruise Port. Published on September 25, 2025, the schedule features a diverse array of cruise operators, including industry giants such as Royal Caribbean International, Princess Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, MSC Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, and Cunard. While the majority of these vessels will dock in St. John’s, the ports of Falmouth and Barbuda are also set to welcome a significant number of arrivals. The season will encompass a mix of transit stops, homeport operations, and overnight stays, catering to vessels of varying sizes—from intimate boutique luxury ships carrying fewer than 200 passengers to colossal megaships accommodating over 4,000 travelers. With multiple days expected to host two or more ships simultaneously, the upcoming season is anticipated to be one of the busiest in recent memory. Although the schedule outlines maximum vessel capacities, actual occupancy rates may vary. Antigua Cruise Port has emphasized that all berthing assignments and times remain subject to change, reflecting the dynamic nature of cruise operations. This surge in maritime activity is expected to provide a substantial boost to the local economy, particularly in tourism and related sectors.
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From Burritos to Breakthroughs: Lessons from Chipotle’s Turnaround for Caribbean Entrepreneurs and Business Owners.
In the realm of business, few narratives are as inspiring as a remarkable comeback. Chipotle Mexican Grill’s resurgence under CEO Brian Niccol stands as a testament to strategic innovation and bold leadership. For entrepreneurs in Antigua and Barbuda, Niccol’s journey offers invaluable insights into revitalizing and future-proofing businesses. Here are five key lessons distilled from Chipotle’s transformation.\n\n**Lesson 1: Embrace Digital Transformation**\nWhen Niccol assumed leadership in 2018, Chipotle was grappling with food safety scandals and a damaged reputation. His immediate focus was on digitization. By introducing mobile ordering and drive-through “Chipotlanes,” he streamlined the customer experience. This digital leap propelled Chipotle’s revenue from \$4.8 billion to \$9.9 billion in just five years. The takeaway for local businesses is clear: digital convenience is no longer optional. Investing in mobile platforms, online booking, and loyalty apps can enhance accessibility and customer satisfaction.\n\n**Lesson 2: Operational Efficiency as a Growth Driver**\nNiccol’s strategy extended beyond digitization to operational optimization. He implemented second “make lines” for online orders, automated food preparation, and streamlined kitchen processes. These changes, though unglamorous, were transformative. For Caribbean businesses, this underscores the importance of addressing internal inefficiencies before pursuing expansion. Auditing and improving processes can build trust and loyalty, which are essential for sustainable growth.\n\n**Lesson 3: Innovate the Customer Experience**\nRather than overhauling the menu, Niccol focused on reimagining how customers interacted with Chipotle. He introduced lifestyle bowls for niche diets and made certain items app-exclusive, driving digital engagement. For instance, the app-only quesadilla led to a 37% surge in loyalty sign-ups within a week. Entrepreneurs can draw inspiration from this approach by exploring ways to enhance customer interaction, such as offering exclusive online deals or creating personalized experiences.\n\n**Lesson 4: Balance Growth with Brand Integrity**\nWhile Niccol’s strategies boosted profits, they also raised concerns about declining customer experience, including smaller portions and reduced human interaction. This serves as a cautionary tale for Caribbean businesses: as you scale, ensure that growth amplifies your brand’s core values rather than eroding them. Protecting what makes your business unique—whether it’s customer service or artisanal quality—is crucial.\n\n**Lesson 5: Leadership Requires Courageous Change**\nNiccol’s success was rooted in his willingness to challenge traditions and make bold decisions. His ability to execute transformative strategies with resilience highlights the importance of courageous leadership. For business leaders in Antigua and Barbuda, this is a call to embrace change, pivot business models, and invest in long-term transformation.\n\n**Universal Applicability**\nThese lessons transcend industries and borders. Whether in hospitality, financial services, or education, the principles of digital transformation, operational excellence, customer-centric innovation, and courageous leadership are universally applicable. By fostering a culture of learning and adaptation, Caribbean businesses can position themselves for success in an evolving global landscape.
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VIDEO: Government denies borrowing money from Social Security
Government denies borrowing money from Social Security
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Antigua and Barbuda strongly condemns all attempts to discredit the President of Venezuela
Antigua’s most visited news platform is now offering businesses a unique opportunity to elevate their digital presence through fully customizable and flexible marketing packages. Designed to cater to diverse advertising needs, these packages allow brands to connect with a broad audience in a dynamic and engaging manner. Businesses looking to amplify their reach can collaborate with the platform’s expert team to craft tailored campaigns that align with their goals. For inquiries and to explore the available options, interested parties are encouraged to contact the platform via email at [email protected]. This initiative underscores the platform’s commitment to supporting local and international businesses in achieving their marketing objectives while leveraging its extensive readership and digital influence.
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Marine Exports See Boost in August 2025
Belize’s export performance in August 2025 remained largely stagnant, with marine products emerging as the sole standout in an otherwise flat trade landscape, according to the Statistical Institute of Belize (SIB). The SIB reported a significant $1.3 million increase in marine export revenues, climbing from $4.5 million in August 2024 to $5.7 million this year. This growth was primarily driven by heightened international demand for lobster meat, a key foreign exchange generator for the nation. Marine exports, encompassing shrimp, conch, whole lobster, and various fish species, have traditionally been a cornerstone of Belize’s export economy. However, the sector has encountered persistent challenges in recent years, including the collapse of the farmed shrimp industry and intensifying competition in global seafood markets. Despite these obstacles, lobster continues to hold its ground as a prized commodity, with steady demand from markets in the United States and Europe. The recent revenue boost signals a potential recovery for the industry, which plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities and small-scale fishers across Belize.
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Food, Rent, and Gas Push Inflation Up 0.8% in August; Fuel Prices Ease Burden
In August 2025, Belizeans experienced a mixed economic landscape as rising costs in essential sectors like food, housing, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were partially offset by declining fuel prices, resulting in an overall inflation rate of 0.8 percent compared to the previous year. According to the Statistical Institute of Belize, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose to 120.7, up from 119.7 in August 2024. The most significant contributors to this increase were the ‘Housing, Water, Electricity, Gas and Other Fuels’ category, which surged by 2.4 percent, and ‘Food and Non-Alcoholic Beverages,’ which climbed by 1.6 percent. Together, these categories represent nearly half of household expenditures, amplifying their impact on consumers. Housing costs were driven by a $12.24 year-over-year increase in the price of a hundred-pound LPG cylinder, reaching $130.04, alongside a 1.7 percent rise in home rental prices. Food inflation was fueled by higher prices for bread, bakery products, and meats, with beef steak and chicken breast prices soaring by 10.7 and 8.5 percent, respectively. Non-alcoholic beverages also saw a 4.4 percent increase, primarily due to higher costs for purified water, juices, and soft drinks. Additional notable price hikes included health services (up 3.8 percent), restaurants and accommodation (up 2.8 percent), and personal care items like deodorants and lotions (up 1.7 percent). Alcoholic beverages and tobacco rose by 2.6 percent, led by cigarette prices. However, these increases were partially mitigated by a 2.5 percent decline in transport costs, driven by lower gasoline and diesel prices. Regular gasoline dropped by $0.90 per gallon, diesel by $0.67, and premium gasoline by $0.62. Information and communication costs also fell by 1.5 percent, reflecting cheaper cell phones. Inflation varied significantly across municipalities, with Punta Gorda experiencing the steepest rise at 2.7 percent due to broad-based increases in food, LPG, and personal care items. In contrast, Orange Walk recorded a slight decline of -0.2 percent, benefiting from lower fuel, garment, and vegetable prices. Month-to-month, consumer prices increased by 0.2 percent between July and August 2025, primarily due to higher diesel, vehicle, and restaurant costs. Year-to-date inflation for the first eight months of 2025 stood at 1.3 percent, largely influenced by rising food, housing, and personal care expenses, while transport and communication costs trended downward.
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Forex: $161.30 to one US dollar
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The US dollar demonstrated a slight upward trend against the Jamaican dollar on Friday, September 26, closing at $161.30, an increase of eighteen cents compared to the previous trading session. This data was reported in the Bank of Jamaica’s daily exchange trading summary, highlighting the ongoing fluctuations in the foreign exchange market. Concurrently, the Canadian dollar also experienced a notable rise, ending the day at $121.14, up from $117.65. The British pound, however, saw a marginal increase, closing at $216.34, just slightly higher than its previous close of $216.08. These shifts reflect broader global currency dynamics, influenced by economic indicators, trade relations, and market sentiment. The Bank of Jamaica continues to monitor these trends closely, as they impact the nation’s import and export activities, as well as overall economic stability.
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Leiba takes helm of Jamaica Chamber of Commerce
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaica Chamber of Commerce (JCC) has announced Emile Leiba, managing partner at DunnCox, as its new president for the 2025/2026 term. This leadership transition follows the completion of two successful terms by outgoing president Phillip Ramson. Leiba, a seasoned attorney with over 20 years of expertise in corporate and commercial law, is set to bring a unique combination of legal proficiency and business insight to the role. His extensive experience in financial regulation, mergers and acquisitions, and governance aligns seamlessly with the chamber’s focus on advocacy and policy-driven initiatives.
During the annual general meeting, Warren McDonald, chair and director of elections, confirmed Leiba’s uncontested election, stating, ‘As Mr. Leiba is the only nominee, it is my duty to announce his election as president for the 2025/2026 term.’
The chamber also unveiled its new leadership team, including Martha Miller, CEO of National Rums of Jamaica, as first vice-president; Jonathan Swire, deputy chairman of Delta Supply Company, as second vice-president; Colonel (Retired) Jamie Ogilvie, vice-president at Jamaica Broilers, as third vice-president; and Janine Chin, a senior pharmaceutical executive, as fourth vice-president. John Butler, executive director at EY Jamaica, was appointed honorary treasurer to oversee financial matters.
Additionally, eight directors were elected to the board, representing a diverse range of industries and expertise. Outgoing president Phillip Ramson reflected on his tenure, highlighting achievements in advocacy, trade facilitation, and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. ‘It has been a true honour to serve as president of the Jamaica Chamber of Commerce…This has been a journey of collaboration, resilience, and shared vision,’ he remarked.
Ramson expressed confidence in the chamber’s future, stating that it is ‘positioned for even greater impact’ under Leiba’s leadership. The transition comes as the JCC continues to advocate for tax reforms, improved public procurement access for SMEs, and enhanced support for businesses undergoing digital transformation.
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Technology outage impacting several services at VM Building Society branches
KINGSTON, Jamaica — VM Building Society, a prominent financial institution in Jamaica, experienced significant service disruptions on Friday due to a widespread technology outage. The incident forced the delayed opening of all branches until 10:00 am, with extended operating hours until 4:00 pm to accommodate affected customers. The outage impacted critical services, including online banking, ABM access, and point-of-sale transactions, rendering them temporarily unavailable. The bank assured members that updates on service restoration would be provided by 10:00 am. Customers visiting branches were advised to anticipate longer wait times due to the disruption. VM Building Society issued an apology for the inconvenience, expressing gratitude for members’ patience and continued support as their technical team worked diligently to resolve the issue.